Projects
Learning About Women Experiencing Homelessness in Their Own Words.

The Poverty Lab and Health Lab are partnering with Sarah's Circle to better understand and address homelessness for women in Chicago

Health Lab, Poverty Lab
Sarah's Circle

One in four homeless adults across the country is an unaccompanied woman. Although these women face unique circumstances and challenges, there is a dearth of data and research, let alone dedicated policy and resources, for this population.

Sarah’s Circle, a Chicago provider for women experiencing homelessness, is a leader in the 1 in 4 Initiative, a national effort to create a dialogue, conduct research, formulate policies and advocate for targeted funding for women who are homeless. They provided services to 853 women in 2015, approximately two-thirds of the unaccompanied women who are experiencing homelessness in Chicagoat a given time.

The Poverty Lab and Health Lab have partnered with Sarah’s Circle to develop, administer, and analyze a survey to gather information on the needs and preferences of women experiencing homelessness in Chicago across four key areas: employment, health, housing, and their sense of belonging in the community. This analysis and the communication of findings will contribute to the 1 in 4 Initiative and could serve as the basis for better coordination and provision of services among providers in Chicago.